Infiniti QX70 SUV Axed for 2018

by Bob Nagy | July 25, 2017 1:15 PM

Infiniti confirmed that the QX70 midsize SUV will be dropped from the 2018 U.S. lineup with production for America to cease next month. Originally introduced as the FX, the QX70 brought a more dramatic sense of style to Infiniti’s luxury SUV/crossover lineup as well as solid performance credentials. And while the 5-pasenger QX70 is departing our shores, we’re promised its spirit “will indeed live on in the near future in other iconic Infiniti models.” While nothing is confirmed, there are rumors a recast successor could turn up here sometime after 2020.

The QX70’s departure comes as Infiniti is preparing to focus on launching a selection of new and updated SUVs which are expected to embrace a good deal of its adventurous character. The first of these will be the completely redesigned 2018 QX50 model that was previewed in concept form last January in Detroit and is set to hit showrooms here during the first quarter of next year. To the extent the volume-build version remains true to its show car precursor, the replacement for the current QX50 will offer aggressive styling, a new variable-compression-ratio turbocharged engine and a selection of semi-autonomous driving systems. Still no word as to when we’ll see this model, but it could be as early as the Frankfurt Auto Show this September.